Victims’ aspirations for a public investigation into the controversial actions of Jeffrey Epstein in the UK were disappointed on Wednesday after initial discussions.
Andy Burnham is contemplating engaging with victims and exploring potential paths forward, but there is currently no active consideration for an inquiry by Downing Street.
The situation became unclear on Wednesday when Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones mentioned that the new Prime Minister is examining the possibility of a public inquiry into Epstein’s UK activities, along with those of former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed.
Davies-Jones stated that she has been given assurance that the Prime Minister is giving serious attention to the matter and has agreed to meet with Epstein’s victims.
She had resigned as Victims Minister in May but returned to the position under Mr. Burnham’s leadership, expressing confidence in his commitment to bringing about systemic changes for all victims, including Epstein and Harrods survivors.
However, a statement from the Ministry of Justice clarified that while the Prime Minister is committed to meeting with victims, an active consideration for a public inquiry is not in place.
Labour campaigners on Violence Against Women and Girls reportedly sent Mr. Burnham a document urging a full public inquiry into Epstein’s UK activities just as he was finalizing his transition to becoming PM.
When asked about the possibility of a public inquiry into Epstein, Davies-Jones mentioned ongoing reviews and the seriousness with which the Prime Minister is approaching the issue, emphasizing the need for action over mere promises.
An Epstein survivor, Anoushka di Georgiou, stressed the importance of taking tangible actions rather than making headlines, calling for any potential public inquiry to encompass all relevant cases.
Justice minister Jake Richards highlighted the necessity of thorough investigations into the disturbing crimes associated with Epstein and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent such incidents in the future.
The document pertaining to Epstein’s case allegedly focuses on scrutinizing UK borders and investigating how he managed to access UK military bases on his private jet, often accompanied by women who were purportedly trafficked.